Genetic Variants in Two Genes Linked With Caffeine Intake

In this article, “Two genes in which variation affects intake of caffeine, the most widely consumed stimulant in the world, have been discovered.” At Chapel Hill, a team of investigators across the nation has examined the genetic variation across the entire genome. Two genes that were identified are CYP1A2 and AHR. The CYP1A2 is found in the metabolism of caffeine and the AHR is found in the regulation of CYP1A2. There is a variance of 1 can of cola or 1/3 cup of caffeinated coffee between individuals with highest consumption genotype and individuals with lowest consumption genotype for either gene. Caffeine is implicated in numerous physiological and medical conditions; it affects sleep patterns, energy levels, mood, and mental and physical performance. It will help us to better understand the genes that have an impact on our daily consumption. Not only that it will also provide insight into the speed of caffeine, how long does it take for caffeine to circulate in the blood and so on. This study is among the first to examine the entire genome for a relationship between genetics and caffeine intake, a lifestyle behavior relevant to over 90% of U.S. adults. I found this article to be interesting because I did not know that discovery of this genes will help us to better understand the impact on our daily consumption. It is good to know that Caffeine has a huge impact on our body.